In light of the global energy and environmental problems we face today, societal expectations for the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies and clean, self-sustaining fuel cells are increasing. To meet these expectations, this research center is actively conducting research in its Fuel Cell Research Division, Solar Energy Conversion Research Division, and Energy Measurement Research Division.

The Fuel Cell Research Division conducts research on the development and analysis of new materials with the aim of improving the performance and durability of polymer electrolyte fuel cells, which are already being put into practical use in automobiles and homes. We are also promoting several large-scale national projects in close cooperation with the Fuel Cell Nanomaterials Research Center. Furthermore, leveraging our research results in fuel cells, we are also focusing on research into polymer electrolyte water electrolysis cells using proton and anion membranes.

The Solar Energy Conversion Research Division conducts research on artificial photosynthesis, including hydrogen production through water splitting using solar energy, synthesis of useful chemical substances through carbon dioxide reduction, and ammonia synthesis through nitrogen reduction, as well as environmental harvesting.

The Energy Measurement Research Division (established in FY2023) conducts research on the utilization of clean energy, the development of piezoelectric and dielectric materials, and the development of electrochemical imaging methods.

The majority of faculty members at this research center are directly involved in the education and research guidance of undergraduate students in the Clean Energy Chemistry course, which was newly established in 2024 following the reorganization of the Faculty of Engineering, as well as graduate students in the Green Energy Conversion Engineering Special Education Program, the Green Energy Conversion Engineering field, and the Applied Chemistry course. They balance research activities with the development of vibrant and capable human resources in this field. Furthermore, since October 2018, in collaboration with 12 universities including Waseda University, we have continued the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Excellent University Graduate School Program "Power and Energy Professional Training Program," providing an excellent learning environment including long-term overseas study and financial support for studies. Working in cooperation with industry and overseas partner organizations, we will continue to play a central role as a research and human resource development center in the green energy field in Japan.

Professor　Kenji Miyatake